Jason and I kicked off our 2024 travel in Switzerland! Our last minute trip was planned entirely using trains, and what a magnificent route through the Alps blanketed in snow. Switzerland lives up to the hype of outstanding natural beauty and also being the most expensive country in the world to visit!

We flew into Zurich and our first train ride was to Lucerne, where we spent two nights enjoying the charming city. We walked off our jetlag, ate delicious chocolate and nearly froze on a boat crossing the lake. The iconic Chapel Bridge sits beautifully on the river connecting old and new town. Built in 1332 and once part of the towns fortifications, it is considered the oldest covered bridge in Europe. Triangular paintings line the ceiling depicting biblical scenes and Swiss history.

The city was still decorated for the holidays and looked magical at night. This was also the perfect time to window shop at the expensive watch stores. A fun and festive place to spend New Years Eve.

The next part of our Swiss adventure led us into the mountains on a scenic panorama train. Our destination was Wengen, a car-free village perched above Lauterbrunnen Valley in the Bernese Oberland. Getting there involved 3 trains including a steep cogwheel but it was well worth it! We were greeted by a snow dusted Wengen which was bustling with skiers and winter activities. The village of Mürren on the opposite side of the valley was equally quaint and fun to visit.

We took the cable car up to Männlichen, wedged in amongst the skis and snowboards. We hiked to the top of the Royal Walk and took in the 360-degree views of the Bernese Alps.

A real highlight was Jungfraujoch, known as the Top of Europe. I watched the weather closely, choosing the day with the best chance of being clear and we lucked out! The train journey here is an experience itself, the route carved up and through the mountains themselves. Operating since 1912, it’s the highest railway in Europe with the station at 11,332 feet. At the top, you are surrounded by mountain views while overlooking the 30+ square mile Aletsch glacier. The ice palace was my favorite, with its tunnels and amazing sculptures. It’s hard to believe this unique cave was dug into the glacier using saws and ice picks in the 1930s!

We had a great time in the wintery wonderland of Switzerland. Thanks for reading! Until next time…

Categories: Nature, TravelTags: Alps, Europe, France, photography, Switzerland, Travel